Filing your Income Tax Return (ITR) in India can often feel like a daunting task. But with the advent of tax filing apps, this process has become simpler, quicker, and more user-friendly. In 2025, with the introduction of newer features and tax filing tools, it’s easier than ever to file your ITR using Form 16, one of the most common tax documents for salaried employees. If you’re wondering how to use an app to file your ITR with Form 16, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide will walk you through the process of using a tax filing app to file your taxes with Form 16, ensuring that you remain compliant with India’s tax regulations while maximizing your tax savings.
What is Form 16?
Form 16 is a certificate issued by your employer that details the income earned by you during the financial year and the tax deducted at source (TDS). It’s one of the most important documents you need when filing your ITR, especially if you are a salaried individual.
Form 16 is typically issued in two parts:
- Part A: Contains the TDS details, such as the tax deducted, the TAN of your employer, and the PAN details of both you and your employer.
- Part B: Provides a summary of your salary, deductions under Section 80C, 80D, and other sections, as well as the taxable income and total TDS deducted.
Having this form ready makes the process of filing ITR much easier and quicker. It helps the app automatically fill out the necessary information, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
Step-by-Step Guide to File ITR Using an App with Form 16
1. Choose the Right Tax Filing App
The first step is selecting a tax filing app. Some of the most popular tax filing apps in India include TaxBuddy, ClearTax, H&R Block, and Taxsmile. These apps are reliable and offer various features to help you file your ITR easily. Many of these apps offer free ITR filing for simple cases (like salaried individuals with Form 16), while some premium features may come at a cost.
2. Create an Account on the App
Once you’ve chosen the app, download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or use the web-based platform. After installation, create an account by providing basic details like your name, email, phone number, and PAN card details. If you’re using a web version, you can simply sign up on the platform’s website.
3. Upload Your Form 16
After logging into the app, the next step is to upload Form 16. The app will prompt you to either upload a PDF or take a snapshot of your Form 16. Once uploaded, the app will extract the relevant data from Part A and Part B of your Form 16 and fill in the corresponding sections in the tax return form.
In case your Form 16 is in PDF format, make sure it is legible and all the data is visible. Some apps allow you to auto-import data from Form 16, making it even easier.
4. Verify Your Personal and Income Details
The app will use the data from Form 16 to fill in the details like your salary, deductions, and TDS. However, it’s crucial to double-check all the information before proceeding. Sometimes, the app might miss out on a few details or need manual input, such as:
- Other income (e.g., interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits, etc.)
- Deductions (e.g., 80C, 80D, 80G, etc.)
- Tax paid in advance (if you’ve paid advance tax)
Ensure that the app has accurately reflected all these components. You can always manually input missing data if necessary.
5. Select the Appropriate ITR Form
Based on the details you provide, the app will automatically select the correct ITR form. For most salaried individuals, ITR-1 is the correct form, but if you have additional income or are claiming deductions, you may need to file ITR-2 or ITR-3. The app will guide you through the selection process.
6. Claim Tax Deductions
One of the key advantages of using a tax filing app is the automated calculation of eligible deductions. The app will provide options to claim deductions under:
- Section 80C: For investments in PPF, EPF, life insurance, and more.
- Section 80D: For premiums paid on health insurance policies.
- Section 80G: For donations to charitable institutions.
Review these deductions and make sure you claim everything you’re eligible for. Some apps even provide suggestions for tax-saving investments to maximize your deductions.
7. Calculate Your Tax Liability
After entering all the details, the app will calculate your tax liability based on your income and deductions. If you’ve paid advance tax or had TDS deducted (as shown in Form 16), this will be accounted for. The app will automatically show your net tax payable or refund due.
8. E-Verify Your ITR
Once your ITR form is completed and all the details are verified, you can proceed to e-verify your return. The app will guide you through the verification process, which can be done through:
- Aadhaar OTP
- Net banking
- Digital signature certificate (DSC)
- EVC (Electronic Verification Code) sent to your registered mobile number.
E-verification is mandatory for your ITR to be considered valid. Once verified, your ITR is successfully filed, and you’ll receive an acknowledgment receipt.
9. Download and Save the ITR Acknowledgment
After successful filing and verification, the app will provide an ITR acknowledgment. Download and save this document for your records. This acknowledgment serves as proof that your tax return has been filed successfully.
10. Track Your Refund Status
If you are eligible for a refund, you can use the app to track the status of your refund. Most tax filing apps provide an option to check the status directly from the Income Tax Department portal.
Why Use an App for ITR Filing with Form 16?
- Convenience: Filing taxes through an app makes the process faster and more efficient, especially for salaried individuals who already have Form 16.
- Accuracy: These apps reduce the risk of human error by auto-filling key data and providing calculations based on your Form 16 and other income details.
- Expert Assistance: Many apps offer access to tax experts, providing personalized advice if needed.
- Cost-Effective: Filing your ITR using an app can be cheaper than hiring a tax consultant, and many apps offer free basic filing for salaried individuals.
Conclusion
Using an app to file your ITR with Form 16 is an easy, effective, and reliable way to ensure your taxes are filed correctly and on time. The process has been streamlined to save you both time and effort, with apps like TaxBuddy, ClearTax, and H&R Block providing seamless experiences for users.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can file your taxes without stress, ensure compliance, and even optimize your tax savings. Whether you’re a first-time filer or a seasoned professional, tax filing apps are making tax season much easier for all.
